Survey on common reference intervals for general chemistry analytes in Hong Kong
T C H Chan1,2, C M Mak1,2, S P L Chen2,3
1Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Medical Journal = Xianggang Yi Xue Za Zhi
|August 13, 2019
Summary
Implementing common reference intervals (RIs) for general chemistry analytes is recommended to reduce confusion and standardize laboratory practices. This study highlights significant heterogeneity in current RIs across local laboratories.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Laboratory Medicine
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Reference intervals (RIs) are crucial for accurate interpretation of laboratory test results.
- A global movement exists to harmonize RIs, but local practices remain inconsistent.
- Lack of harmonized RIs can lead to confusion and impact patient management across different laboratories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey current reference intervals for general chemistry analytes in local laboratories.
- To assess the harmonization of RIs across different analytical platforms and laboratories.
- To provide data supporting the implementation of common RIs to improve laboratory practice.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a survey of RIs for 14 general chemistry analytes in 10 chemical pathology laboratories.
- Included laboratories using four major analytical platforms (Abbott, Beckman Coulter, Roche, Siemens).
- Assessed analytical bias using inter-laboratory comparison of external quality assurance programs.
Main Results:
- Sufficient inter-laboratory and inter-platform agreement was found for 10 general chemistry analytes.
- Significant heterogeneity in RIs was observed, with upper RI value differences up to 47% for aspartate aminotransferase.
- Variations in RIs for urea, potassium, phosphate, and total protein exceeded acceptable biological variation thresholds.
Conclusions:
- Recommends the adoption of common RIs for general chemistry analytes in Hong Kong.
- Common RIs will prevent interpreter confusion, enhance electronic data transfer, and unify laboratory practices.
- This study provides foundational data for harmonizing RIs across a broader range of laboratory tests.
Keywords:
Chemistry, clinicalClinical chemistry testsPathology, clinicalReference standardsReference valuesMore Related Videos
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